Kern River Parkway Festival

The Kern County and Bakersfield Community are all invited out for day of outdoor fun and environmental awareness at the Kern River Parkway Festival at Park at Riverwalk on May 18th from 11am to 5pm, hosted by Bring Back the Kern and the Kern River Parkway Foundation. This exciting event promises a vibrant mix of entertainment, education, and community engagement, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Kern River. Get ready to immerse yourself in a celebration of something uniquely Bakersfield - the Kern River! Bakersfield is a RIVER CITY, and having a flowing river and the greenspaces alongside it create an essential aesthetic, wildlife habitat, and quality of life amenity that we should all take great pride in. This event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Valley Strong Credit Union, Temblor Brewing Company, as well as our many raffle donors.

Event Features:

• Showcase of Local Nonprofits: Explore the invaluable work of local nonprofits dedicated to conservation and outdoor awareness, including the Kern River Flyfishers Association, Kern River Conservancy, Kern Audubon Society, CA Department of Fish and Wildlife, CA Native Plant Society, Kern Gateway Trail, White Wolf Wellness Foundation, Tule Elk Preserve, CSUB Sustainability Club, Kern Nature Center, Panorama Vista Preserve, and the Wildlands Conservancy. Connect with these organizations, learn about their initiatives, and discover how you can contribute to the preservation of our natural resources.
• Culinary Journey: Indulge in a culinary adventure with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors offering delicious treats and refreshing drinks. From savory delights to sweet temptations, there's something to satisfy every craving. Vendors include Ninja Sushi, Oh, Boy! Po'Boy!, Brazil Hot Dogs, El Churro Guy, Hopeful Harvest, Anna Luisas Kitchen, Get it Twisted, Hills Smokehouse Grill, Tacos La Fiesta, Que Rollo con el Pollo, Phillys Best Cheesesteak, Howie's Micheladas, What Kim Craves, and Lemon Maid.
• Beer Garden Sponsored by Temblor Brewing Company: Quench your thirst at the beer garden sponsored by Temblor Brewing Company. Enjoy a cold brew in the company of friends while taking in the lively atmosphere of the festival. Festival-goers will receive custom Bring Back the Kern metal cups as souvenirs.
• Support for Local Businesses: Shop local at the festival's small business vendors showcasing unique offerings, from handmade crafts to artisanal goods. Support the entrepreneurial spirit of the community while finding fun and unique items to take home.
• Raffle with River Related Prizes: The event features a raffle with prizes valued at a combined total of over $1000, all related to the Kern River. Lucky winners could walk away with prizes such as an e-bike donated by Action Sports, a guided fly fishing day from Guy Jean's Flyfishing, e-bike rentals from Pedego, whitewater rafting vouchers from Whitewater Voyages, and a gift card to Copes Fish and Tackle.
• Musical Entertainment: Groove to the beats provided by Precious Radio, setting the perfect soundtrack for a day of celebration and camaraderie.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Families can bond over fun-filled activities for all ages, ensuring that everyone has a memorable experience. This includes plein air painting by the river, fly rod casting tutorials, and other educational/interactive activities.

Proceeds from the event support the mission of the Parkway Foundation and Bring Back the Kern in ensuring the Parkway and river are protected for future generations.